21
b
c
d
a
5 BRAke SYSTem.
5.1 General Information.
Brakes
(a+b)
are used for adjusting one’s speed to the surrounding
terrain and traffic. In an emergency situation, the brakes must bring the
bicycle to a halt as quickly as possible. In the process of such emer-
gency braking, the rider’s weight shifts forward, thus reducing the load
on the rear wheel
(c)
. The rate of deceleration is primarily limited by the
danger of the rear wheel losing contact with the ground resulting in an
overturning of the bicycle and secondly by the tyres’ grip on the road.
This problem becomes particularly acute when riding downhill. There-
fore, in case of an emergency braking situation you have to try to put
your weight back as far as possible.
Actuate both brakes simultaneously and bear in mind that, due to the
weight transfer, the front brakes can generate a far better braking effect
on a surface with good grip.
The braking conditions on unpaved surfaces differ, i.e. overbraking the
front wheel can make the wheel slip away. Therefore, be sure to practise
braking on different kinds of surface.
Wet weather reduces the braking power. Apply the brakes carefully
when riding on wet or slippery surface, as the tyres can easily slip away.
Therefore, reduce your speed when riding in such conditions.
Prolonged braking or permanent dragging of brake pads can lead to
overheating of the rims in the case of rim brakes. This can damage the
inner tube or make the tyre slip on the rim causing a sudden loss of air
which could lead to a serious accident.
With disc brakes too, prolonged braking or permanent dragging of brake
pads can lead to an overheating of the brake system. This can lead to a
reduction of the braking power or brake failure.
Risk of accident
!
When riding downhill, get used to braking hard and then releasing the
brake again, whenever the road surface and the situation allows for it. If
you are in doubt about the braking action, stop and let the brake system
cool down.
The assignment of brake lever to brake calliper can vary
(d)
,
e.g. left lever acts on front brake. Make yourself familiar with
the lever-to-brake assignment or ask at a bicycle specialist
shop of your trust to change the brakes as you want them.
